Influences

Commedia dell'arte has influenced many regions, such as England and France. In fact, William Shakespeare is believed to be a fan of Commedia dell'arte, even incorporating its characters in his play Twelfth Night!


Malvolio, the Shakespearean equivalent of Arlecchiono

Maria, the Shakespearean equivalent of Columbina

Commedia dell'arte also influenced the world of French Vaudeville Theatre!

Commedia dell'arte in Vaudeville:

• its characters were developed from Commedia dell'arte
• In addition to satiric lines, included funny songs with satiric lyrics
• Known in Paris as the Théâtre de l'opera~ Comique
• Added Chacters, i.e. The Village Soothsayer
• Stories told of the Noble, Simple Life

Ever wonder why characters' traits and mannerisms seem so similar throughout modern sitcoms in the western world? That is because they are derived from Commedia dell'arte!

Commedia dell'arte in Sitcoms:

• Stock Characters:

• The wise cracking servant
• 
• The rude, high status servant
• 
• The old miser
• 
• The incompetent doctor
• 
• The braggart warrior
• 
• The smart, sexy, female servant
• 
• The Lovers
• 
• The Zanni
• 
• The Parasite
• 

works cited:

http://www.factionoffools.org/history

http://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1036&context=spovsc

https://www.scribd.com/mobile/document/249672936/Commedia-dell-Arte-and-Its-Impact-on-Contemporary-Comedy